Elaf Group has reported a growth in bookings in correlation to the rising demand during Ramadan, with a 5% rise in Umrah pilgrims this year.
The number of Umrah visas issued by embassies of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia this year has reached 5.67 million, with more than five million already having entered the Kingdom, creating a surge in bookings to Makkah and Madinah in 2016, according to an Elaf press statement.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah said that Umrah pilgrims this year could reach up to seven million, with more than 1.2 million coming from Egypt followed by more than 900,000 visas issued to pilgrims from Pakistan.
The Ministry noted that this year has already recorded a 5% rise in Umrah pilgrims, a figure that is expected to rise 30% by 2020.
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Elaf Group CEO Ziyad Bin Mahfouz said: “The travel and tourism sector is feeling the heat as the volume of Umrah pilgrims rushing to book visits to the Kingdom has continued to swell over the past months. The upcoming summer holidays which also coincide with the Holy Month of Ramadan have kept travel operators very busy at this time. We are anticipating even brisker business towards the end of the month.”
“In line with our commitment to support the tourism sector - especially religious tourism - the Elaf Group has stepped up its efforts to ensure our staff is well-prepared to address the needs of the pilgrims and promptly provide them with the services and comfort they hope to experience at this time – enjoying a relaxing stay amidst the religious ambience in our hotels in Makkah and Madinah. Our Group has continuously been expanding its services and number of rooms to accommodate the needs of our customers who can avail of special packages and activities for the whole family as they seek a meaningful Umrah experience, especially during Ramadan,” Bin Mahfouz concluded.
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